Inside the next-generation KFC

KFC is setting out new bait for the millennials who’ve made the likes of Chick-fil-A and Zaxby’s such fast-rising stars: a new restaurant design the developers call “carnival-esque.” The franchisor has vowed to retrofit the look onto 70 percent of domestic units—3,150 out of 4,500 stores—by 2017, dipping into a $185 million kitty that was set aside last year by the chain for franchisee rehabs.

The system is betting the modernized design will deliver at least the 3 percent sales gain the re-do generated at test stores.

The look was developed by FRCH Design Worldwide, which specializes in fast-casual restaurant design.

The spotlight is on the Colonel at the new restaurant. His visage is almost as prominent as the KFC brand name. The stores retain the red and white color scheme of older stores, but few other design features.

One of the aims of the new design is heightening a sense of southern hospitality. The renovated stores will have a more contemporary seating area. It also has a modularity to accommodate varying-sized groups.

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